THE Aliann Pompey Invitational (API), a leading track-and-field event in Guyana, is poised for a triumphant comeback today at the National Track and Field Centre on West Coast Demerara.
Athletes from across the Caribbean, North America, and beyond will battle for glory. The opening ceremony will commence at 16:15hrs after gates open at 15:00hrs.

Local Guyanese competitors will compete against athletes from powerhouses like Trinidad and Tobago, the Bahamas, and Colombia, alongside representatives from the Dominican Republic, Ghana, Australia, and Thailand.
The four-year hiatus, caused by factors including the COVID-19 pandemic, proved challenging for founder, Aliann Pompey. However, with the event’s return, fueled by significant government and stakeholder support, the four-time Olympian expressed optimism for the future, stating, “The possibilities are now endless.”

The government, through the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, has emerged as the API’s biggest sponsor, committing G$7M to the event.
This marks the largest investment ever made in Guyana’s premier track and field competition and is viewed as a strategic move to bolster the sport’s future within the country. Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr. elaborated on the anticipated positive outcomes from the government’s support during a press conference on Friday.

Among the high-profile athletes competing at the API will be sprinters Alexander Ogando (Dominican Republic) and Guyana’s own Emanuel Archibald.
The pair is expected to ignite the highly anticipated men’s 100m event.
With the World Athletics Olympic qualification deadline set for June 30th just eight days away, track and field fans in Guyana can expect a thrilling showdown as each 100m athlete strives to meet the crucial 10-second standard.